Backyard chickens are increasingly being raised as pets, for egg production, and for youth development and science projects. While raising chickens can be an interesting and economically beneficial activity, chickens and other fowl may also have pest problems. Chickens are natural hosts to a variety of arthropod pests (called ectoparasites), including mites, lice, and fleas which feed on chickens and use chicken coops as habitats. These pests may cause discomfort to birds and decrease their egg production. This article aims to help people who keep chickens understand and learn treatment options for the common ectoparasites that can affect their animals.

Lice

The most common pests found on backyard chickens include...

World Migratory Bird Day (May 10) is a yearly event to help promote awareness about migratory birds and their habitats. The campaign celebrates the migration of birds across countries and continents and focuses on their conservation.

However, during their migration, these birds may cause problems for occupants in urban areas. The birds may nest in colonies on buildings and other structures and their activities can be a nuisance.

Laws that Protect Birds

If migratory bird activities are causing issues in your building, make sure you know the law before you take any action. Certain birds that nest on dwellings may be protected under the

[Article originally appeared in the November 2014 issue of the Retail Nursery & Garden Center IPM News]

Although urban areas are important habitats for migrating birds, birds can also quickly become a nuisance or economic issue when they begin nesting in colonies on buildings and other structures. Their activities can result in disruptive noises, lead to potential structural damage (Figure 1), and their droppings can create aesthetic and human health problems. The most effective method to keep migrating and nesting birds from becoming a nuisance or causing building damage is to exclude them.

Laws...